OREANDA-NEWS. Following a significant upgrade, Auckland Airport’s Gate 10 has officially reopened, sporting a new dual boarding capability.

The upgrade, which saw an investment from the airport of USD 3.5 million, means Gate 10 can now accommodate all aircraft types including the A380, the largest aircraft in operation at the airport.

Judy Nicholl, Auckland Airport’s general manager aeronautical operations, says the dual boarding capability allows Gate 10 now to operate two air bridges when loading or off-loading passengers from a single aircraft.

“Gate 10 is located on Pier A, our busiest international pier, and the new dual boarding facility means passengers will experience faster and more efficient boarding or disembarking of aircraft on this gate,” says Ms Nicholl.  “Gate 10 also importantly improves our ability to cater for the increasing number of larger aircraft we are seeing at the international terminal.”

Gate 10 officially welcomed its first passengers yesterday, arriving on an Air New Zealand Boeing 777 flight from China.  The new gate will play a role in providing for the growing number of international passengers that arrive and depart at Auckland Airport.